Rangers Rumors: Playoff Success To Be Crucial For Kaapo Kakko

The upcoming playoffs carry immense weight for Kaapo Kakko's future with the New York Rangers and beyond, as noted by Mollie Walker and Lyle Richardson.

As a 23-year-old winger approaching restricted free agency, Kakko's performance in the postseason will significantly influence his next contract negotiations.

Kakko is in the final year of a 2-year, $4.2M contract with the Rangers and he'll be a restricted free agent after this season.

I’ve been very critical of Kaapo Kakko lately.

This is what I want to see more of.

Get inside the dots, and shoot the puck.

24 has looked phenomenal over the past 5 games or so. pic.twitter.com/jNmu06jPZt

— Jonny Lazarus (@JLazzy23) March 17, 2024

Despite grappling with injuries and fluctuating productivity throughout the season and his career so far, Kakko has a chance to seize the playoff stage as an opportunity for redemption and to showcase his value to the team and potential suitors alike.

Coming off a career-best season, Kakko has taken a step back this year, scoring 10 goals and 14 total points across 47 games played. That being said, he has scored in back-to-back games, so maybe a turnaround is starting to be seen.

With the trade deadline behind him and still donning the Rangers' jersey, Kakko's focus is squarely on the playoffs.

Recognizing the postseason as a pivotal moment that could shape his future contract negotiations, Kakko is surely feeling the pressure to take his game to another level in the next couple of months. The fact that the Rangers included him in a recent trade proposal adds pressure to his need to solidify his role on the team.

Big one for Kaapo Kakko pic.twitter.com/YOxpCdIcKQ

— Jonny Lazarus (@JLazzy23) March 16, 2024

Whether he finds himself in a top-six role or on lower lines, Kakko understands that his performance in the playoffs will speak volumes about his worth to the team and could significantly impact his next contract's terms and duration.

Understanding the importance of seizing this opportunity to redefine his narrative and solidify his role within the Rangers' roster, Kakko is poised to showcase his skills and prove his worth when it matters most.

Over his five years in the NHL, Kakko has amassed 54 goals and 58 assists for 112 total points across 286 games played. Photo Credit: Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports